Loyola Chicago at George Mason

FAIRFAX, Va. (Interstat) — A surging George Mason looks to continue its climb in the Atlantic 10 standings when it hosts a Loyola Chicago team seeking consistency on Wednesday night at EagleBank Arena.

The Patriots (10-6) have won three straight conference games, most recently a 59-46 road victory over George Washington on Sunday. Zahirah Walton powered that win with 21 points and has been a focal point, averaging 18.4 points over her last five contests. Her season highlight was a 25-point, 4-rebound, 4-assist effort in a dominant 74-59 win over Dayton on Dec. 31.

George Mason’s defense has been key during the streak, holding opponents to an average of 50.7 points in the three wins. Mary Amoateng (12 points) and Kennedy Harris (14 points) provided crucial support alongside Walton in the latest victory.

Loyola Chicago (6-10) arrives after snapping a three-game skid with a 71-64 home win against Saint Louis on Sunday. The Ramblers’ performance has been uneven, mixing narrow wins over teams like Dayton and Northwestern with several double-digit losses.

The Ramblers will rely on guard Alex-Anne Bessette, who erupted for 20 points and six rebounds in the win over Saint Louis. Bessette has shown high-scoring capability, including a 22-point outing at Northwestern, but has also been held to single digits in three of her last six games. Supporting contributors like Alexa Kinas and Roisin Grandberry will need to provide steady production.

Historically, the teams have split their last four meetings. This game begins a key home stretch for George Mason, while Loyola Chicago opens a two-game road trip. The rematch is scheduled for Feb. 18 in Chicago.

Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST Wednesday at EagleBank Arena.